Your 2026 Westfield Burwood Local Hero is:

John Sanderson

Sailability Dobroyd

Selfless. Committed. Determined.

John Sanderson has been awarded a $20,000 grant for their organisation, Sailability Dobroyd.

Thanks to John Sanderson’s passion and commitment to inclusive sailing at Sailability Dobroyd, no one is left on shore, missing out on the freedom of being on the water.

Based in the waters of Iron Cove, he welcomes and teaches people of all abilities, ages and backgrounds, giving them confidence on the water and encouraging them to take the helm. His lessons range from ‘come-and-try' sessions through to development sailing and racing.

John is driven by watching his students learn and thrive on the water.

He explains, “What motivates me is everything to do with inclusion in sailing, like the joy of a nonverbal autistic young man when he understands how to steer. Or being able to coach an unsighted person to sail straight courses. Or running sailing and powerboat training for Indigenous teenagers.”

Over 12 years, John has helped transform attitudes as well as opportunities, creating a sailing community where people of all abilities can learn, compete and belong.

John’s commitment extends beyond his students. He also trains volunteers and other sailing instructors, strengthens links across the sailing community, and helps create an environment where guide dogs, wheelchairs and different abilities are part of everyday club life.

We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5,000 grant for the organisation they represent

Jenny Bae

Stepwise Community Services

Passionate. Generous. Dedicated.

For more than 20 years, Jenny has supported women and children experiencing domestic and family violence through Stepwise Community Service. As a specialist worker, she helps people navigate services, access practical assistance and move towards safety, bringing compassion, reassurance and hope to every person she supports.

Jianhua Liu

Sydney Chinese Drum Art Troupe

Inclusive. Devoted. Unwavering.

At the heart of Burwood's multicultural community, Jianhua Liu builds friendships and understanding through traditional Chinese drumming and dance. She leads the Sydney Chinese Drum Art Troupe, welcoming participants from many cultural backgrounds and fostering belonging through shared arts experiences. Under her leadership, the troupe has grown into an active hub of cultural celebration and community volunteering.

---

If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2026 nominees

View all of the Westfield Burwood nominees and their organisations.

2027 Nominations Now Open

Do you know someone making a difference in your community? Tell us in 200 words why they should be a Westfield Local Hero and they could receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation.

Find out more here